I watched the first set last night of Haas - Simon before head started nodding and I turned out the light. Simon is normally very good at keeping the ball in play but last night Tommy was just better and turned out some nice stuff at the net. One is overawed these days at the sheer physicality of the pro game and there was full evidence of that last night.

I booked my accomodation for Cincy yesterday so that is all something to look forward to. I go back each year to the same family style motel which is 15 minutes walk from the tennis center. It is much more convenient that the half hour drive plus parking for the Citi (formerly Legg Mason) here in Washington. This year, I have resolved to actually drive into Cincinnati to see what it looks like.

The amount of intelligence Tommy put in last 2 matches is simply brilliant. He outsmarted both Novak and Simon by outplaying them, never letting them in their rythm. He absolutely controlled every single shot.

I dare to say this game could very well resemble the peak days of Tommy, as his game is vastly different then the Haas version from 09' success. Back in 2009 he adopted more S&V style, considering he only returned from another big injury, avoiding huge rallies, basically to shorten points.

2013 Haas is back to his game. All around game that he has been always known for. Such variety of shots and shot selection is just magnificent. Volleys are still there, with some amazing top spin lobs, chip and charges and amazing slices.One of the best improvements over the last years, Tommy improved mentally, keeping more focus, never loosing patience.There was a time vs Djokovic where Novak got break back in 2nd, I really thought epic choke is coming again after having 6-2 2-0 and few BP for *3-0.

That match was huge self confidence boost, although I do believe he has all the motivation he needs right from the stands, with his baby girl finally watching him play

Gasquet can be quite annoying in that 90% of the time he is dull and frustrating to watch and then 10% of the time he pulls off a display like that! If only he and his coaches and whoever he surrounds himself with can get those percentages to turn around...

Gasquet has been quietly racking up the wins and titles this season. He could be ready to make his big move. He has not lost to Murray on hard courts, interestingly enough, although it's been some years since they've played.